Latest Derby County transfer news: Curtis Nelson, Warne hint, Duane Holmes stance | OneFootball

Derby County have started the new year in good form having climbed the League One table.

Paul Warne’s side are now 4th in the standings, three points clear of the chasing pack outside of the play-off places while having a game in hand on some of their rivals.

Progression into the fourth round of the FA Cup last weekend extended the club’s unbeaten run in all competitions to 16 games.

With the January transfer window also now open, this month represents a great opportunity for the Rams to take a great step forward towards their ambition of returning to the second tier.

Gaining ground on the top three will be the immediate aim, with an eight point gap separating Warne’s side and 2nd place Sheffield Wednesday.

Here are the latest transfer news headlines surrounding Derby…

Curtis Nelson pursuit

Cardiff’s transfer situation remains up in the air due to a FIFA ban, which may make the Bluebirds reluctant to sell anyone this window.

However, the recall of Mark McGuinness likely means that Nelson will fall further down the pecking order of Mark Hudson’s side in the second half of the season.

That may yet open the door to Derby, who have yet to make any concrete contact over a move despite their reported interest.

Warne hints

Manager Warne has admitted that the club is closing in on a new arrival at Pride Park, via Derbyshire Live.

The former Rotherham manager is optimistic about the club’s ability to recruit new signings despite the turmoil that has surrounded Derby in recent years.

While he believes new signings would be welcome, he has also revealed that he told his squad that remaining fit and injury-free is his priority.

However, with that being an impossible thing to guarantee, he is hopeful of bringing in a couple of fresh faces this month.

Quiz: What club do these 14 ex-Derby County academy players play for now?

1 of 14

Luke Thomas?

Barnsley Exeter Ipswich Portsmouth

Duane Holmes stance

Holmes has attracted interest from the likes of Derby and Sheffield Wednesday this month, with the Huddersfield Town player’s contract set to expire in the summer.

However, it is now understood that the 28-year old is willing to remain at the John Smith Stadium for the remainder of the season despite interest.